Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island
4.5
About
Alcatraz Island was once the most secure federal prison in the U.S., and held notorious inmates like Al Capone. After being decommissioned in 1963, the prison is now a museum, welcoming millions of curious travelers every year. Catch the ferry on Pier 33 to Alcatraz and explore the island at your own pace as you soak up the views of San Francisco and the bay. You can take a guided tour with a park ranger to learn more about the intriguing anecdotes about the facility’s fascinating history. But book your spots early—tickets sell out fast. – Tripadvisor
Duration: 2-3 hours
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- Pauly-101Glasgow, United Kingdom489 contributionsDay tourDay tour to Alcatraz was high on our itinerary and it did not disappoint. The ferry over was a little too busy with visitors having to stand but this wasn’t an issue for us and just something to keep in mind. The initial tour with a guide around the island was fantastic as it was informative and entertaining. The self-guided audio tour on the inside wasn’t quite as good but still a must. Great tour and experience and a huge thanks to the staff who made this unforgettable.Visited March 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 16, 2023
- BBB-MLJLondon, United Kingdom358 contributionsAnother one to tick on your San Francisco listThe boat ride out/back was pleasant and well organised. It’s a big complex but the only part open is the main cell block. There are lots of other buildings and areas that are out-of-bounds. I’m sure it costs a lot to maintain and run the boats but with 1.5 million visitors a year at about $60pp I’m sure more could be restored (made safe) and opened up.Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 21, 2023
- Marcus CBracknell, United Kingdom27 contributionsLocked up but not for longWhat an experience and we visited on a rare really clear day. the fog would definitely make it a much more bleak experience. The rangers were great and full of knowledge and the fact you can wander round for as long as you want is great. My two words of warning are the birds there are lots they are noisy and it smells anywhere near where they nest. The other sad fact is as a Part of the history and heritage of the San Francisco bay area is does seem to be left to just decay and there was lots of bits that seemed dilapidated. I just compared it to lots of older heritage sites in the uk and just think needs a little more love. What an amazing place though. 100% worth a visit.Visited November 2022Traveled as a coupleWritten October 23, 2023
- ChrisOssett, United Kingdom750 contributionsInterestingAn interesting insight into the bleakness of Alcatraz. Took the self guided audio tour which was narrated by ex 'cons' and prison guards. Prison cells small. Regime described was tough. The building itself has flaking paint all over the walls. (I guess they don't want it to look pristine). The prison guard quarters were just rubble. There is the obligatory gift shop. There are some ongoing works on the island. This attraction must make quite a substantial amount of money. Perhaps more of it could be spent on the island and make the visitors trip more amenable. Be prepared for the strong smell of bird droppings. The trip across on the ferry gives great views of Golden Gate bridge.Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 23, 2023
- Valerie GNorth Port, Florida288 contributionsLoved the Audio Tour, Lots to See and Do on Alcatraz IslandAlcatraz was the highlight of our trip to San Francisco. My husband and I enjoyed seeing the lighthouse, jailcells, and gardens on the island. We were excited that the back trail was open (Agave Trail I think is what the park ranger called it) because it's usually closed through most of the year. I figure it's due to the high waves that can break near the top of the trail. A beautiful staircase leads you up towards the lighthouse. The audio tour through the jailcell was very unique and informative. A must do on the island! We enjoyed learning about the history of the island, prison, and Indian tribes while touring around Alcatraz. It is a lot of walking but there are plenty of benches to rest on and beautiful views of the bay and San Francisco no matter where you are on the island. While locals seem to undervalue this unique attraction off their shores, it's a must see for visitors. I would allow at least 2 hours to see the island fully. We took the first boat of the day over from Pier 33 and was glad we did. Definitely get there early to enjoy the island before it gets crowded.Visited November 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten November 12, 2023
- JoanneLake Mary, Florida2,132 contributionsTop of my bucket listThis place is amazing, have always wanted to go and so glad I made the time. Friends and I only waited about 15 minutes to get tickets - plenty of spaces, but they do not take cash. Ferry ride is about 10 minutes with excellent views - overpriced snacks on board. The island is really hilly, so be prepared with good walking shoes. The cells are sobering, and actually the isolation cells were much better than the regular ones. The gardens in the back have some nice plants that are worth the walk. Definitely a don't-miss place.Visited November 2023Traveled with friendsWritten November 12, 2023
- Shannon2 contributionsDon't use STUBHUB though!The tour of Alcatraz was amazing! Make sure to buy your tickets through Alcatraz City Cruises though. I never received the tickets I purchased through StubHub of which I paid double and should have been a red flag when the completed purchase was in euros. I quickly bought them without doing research, a mistake I will not make again. Alcatraz City Cruises is great though!!!Visited November 2023Traveled with familyWritten November 13, 2023
- Claudia PSwindon, United Kingdom58 contributionsGreat audio guide!Fascinating couple of hours ! The audio tour of the cell block was interesting and well paced. A random Tuesday in November - no queues for the boats either direction and not too busy so could feel the isolation. Booked the day before directly with City Cruises linked from the NPS website with no issues (presumably as off-season generally). Worth a visit!Visited November 2023Traveled soloWritten November 14, 2023
- boseguera35 contributionsGreat activity when in San Francisco!You can learn so much and it is very interesting. My friends and I got there a little late and they were nice enough to just move us to go on the next ferry. They were very flexible. We did street parking and it was easy to find something close to the pier. We did the Alcatraz Island Tickets day tour for a reasonable price and they sell quick food on the ferry (try to eat before or after). Definitely recommend the tour!Visited August 2023Traveled with friendsWritten November 27, 2023
- megmPhoenix_AZPhoenix, Arizona55 contributionsLoved it, very interesting.So cool, place is interesting, my husband and I took our teenage son and we all enjoyed it. You can walk at your own pace. We booked it through the official site which saves you money. Few tips, food is expensive so try and eat prior. It’s only snacks, if you have a hard time walking up inclines, they have a shuttle to go around the island, which we kind of wish we would’ve done for part of it, be sure and book several days ahead of time if not weeks cause it does sell out. Have fun.Visited November 2023Traveled with familyWritten December 12, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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jeffreyshapiro
Bozeman, MT1,843 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
A must visit National Park in SFO.
With your paid ticket you get free admission to 4-5 other San Francisco area.
This island prison was for the most vicious criminals.
The stories sent chills up my spine.
The audio is super full of informative stories with sound effects.
The island is a sanctuary for many species of birds. Once migration begins for some of them, areas are protected so they can breed.
We had a great experience.
Dress warm or you will be cold and uncomfortable the entire time you are there.
Keep in mind you are surrounded by water and all the buildings are concrete and cold!
Make your reservation on line, it will save you a lot of waiting.
With your paid ticket you get free admission to 4-5 other San Francisco area.
This island prison was for the most vicious criminals.
The stories sent chills up my spine.
The audio is super full of informative stories with sound effects.
The island is a sanctuary for many species of birds. Once migration begins for some of them, areas are protected so they can breed.
We had a great experience.
Dress warm or you will be cold and uncomfortable the entire time you are there.
Keep in mind you are surrounded by water and all the buildings are concrete and cold!
Make your reservation on line, it will save you a lot of waiting.
Written January 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TravelSouthGA
Georgia173 contributions
Aug 2021
The prisoners who were once on Alcatraz were doing hard time and the worst of the worst. Now, you can see and learn about what life was like for those men and the men who guarded them. Surprisingly, the wardens had an actual mansion on the island and the guards lived in apartments on the island with their families!
The ferry boat ride over and back is definitely a big part of the experience as you approach and leave the island and can see the bay and San Francisco also. Once on Alcatraz, the Park Service ranger gives you an overview and then you can tour the main prison building (cellhouse) and other limited areas. I definitely recommend the included audio tour, where you hear the voices of some actual prisoners and guards describing what life was like.
They also explain and there is a current exhibit about the American Indian occupation that took place after the prison closed. It too was an important piece of American history to know about.
We booked through the authorized (by the Park Service) provider, Alcatraz CityCruises via their web site. Reservations in advance are recommended and they leave out of Pier 33 in the Fisherman's Wharf area. They recommend arriving 30 minutes or more early. We did and were actually able to get on a boat that was just getting ready to leave (otherwise we would have had to stand in line for 30 minutes for our scheduled departure).
The ferry boat ride over and back is definitely a big part of the experience as you approach and leave the island and can see the bay and San Francisco also. Once on Alcatraz, the Park Service ranger gives you an overview and then you can tour the main prison building (cellhouse) and other limited areas. I definitely recommend the included audio tour, where you hear the voices of some actual prisoners and guards describing what life was like.
They also explain and there is a current exhibit about the American Indian occupation that took place after the prison closed. It too was an important piece of American history to know about.
We booked through the authorized (by the Park Service) provider, Alcatraz CityCruises via their web site. Reservations in advance are recommended and they leave out of Pier 33 in the Fisherman's Wharf area. They recommend arriving 30 minutes or more early. We did and were actually able to get on a boat that was just getting ready to leave (otherwise we would have had to stand in line for 30 minutes for our scheduled departure).
Written August 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Troy H
1 contribution
Apr 2020
I had made Alcatraz Tour reservations a couple months prior to the COVID pandemic and called the booking agency in mid-April 2020 to cancel due to obvious reasons. I was informed that Hornblower Classic Cab, the operator, would be refunding the charge, however, City Info Experts, the marketer, was not so willing and elected to instead provide a credit (good for 5 years) for the next time I use their services. In order to use this credit, I must call the company and let them know that I have it with them and, I assume, the original confirmation from the order to verify the transaction took place. I have a feeling they are just hoping people forget they have the credit and just pocket the processing fee as I suspect most people will not remember having it or retain documentation to prove they have it, especially if it's another 3 years before they re-book the tour. I'm a bit taken aback and disappointed that they wouldn't offer a refund and get a sense ownership lacks compassion even during a pandemic crisis. That being said, I definitely will try to avoid using their services going forward.
Written April 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
publiussulla
Seattle, WA313 contributions
Oct 2021
This is someplace that has been on my bucket list for a number of years. So a few things I like to know about someplace before I go is the tour self guided or by guided tour only? This was a self guided tour with lots of displays with more info for each place you stop along the audio guide route. The boat trip only took I think 15 to 20 mins and the boat was crowded and was the dock when we got to the island. The prison is on top of a steep incline took about 15 mins to get to the top and we went in to start our tour. It took about an hour to get through the whole audio guide and there are a few steps but the area being seen is flat and on one level. There are several places that are closed off and not viewable by the public. The gift shop was very picked over on the way out of the prison block they were either out of stock or did not restock otherwise I would have picked a tshirt for sure. Overall was a great visit and would highly recommend this informative and visually stimulating experience (stunning views of the bay and San Francisco) to anybody in the bay area with half a day that needs to be filled.
Written October 17, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SabinaD
337 contributions
Dec 2019 • Couples
Great visit, well worth all the hype. Tours were sold out so we were very glad to have booked months in advance. The system for boarding ferry is efficient and moves fast.
The audio tour was well done, and moved through the cell block nicely. Definitely bring snacks and a drink and be prepared to spend time walking the island after the tour - it is beautiful with stunning views back to the city.
Queue for the return ferry starts 20 min before depart time.
Highly recommended.
The audio tour was well done, and moved through the cell block nicely. Definitely bring snacks and a drink and be prepared to spend time walking the island after the tour - it is beautiful with stunning views back to the city.
Queue for the return ferry starts 20 min before depart time.
Highly recommended.
Written January 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cathy E
8 contributions
Jan 2020
Exploring Alcatraz was fascinating. I debated paying the extra $ to take the cruise that docks on the island & am glad I did! The tour guide gave us a great overview when we arrived & then took us on a basic tour to get us started, after which I went to the current exhibit marking the 50th anniversary of the Indian Occupation of the island.
The Indians of All Tribes occupied the abandoned island and began the Red Power movement that has continued through Standing Rock and more. The art, photos, & personal stories were powerful.
Next was the traditional Alcatraz exhibits and audio tour. It's all self-paced after the tour guide's beginning tour, so I wandered around for about four hours to see everything. There were two small booklets available for $1 each about the island and escape attempts that I was happy to buy. It's easy to imagine it as an active prison, especially with the audio tour that included the voices of actual former Alcatraz guards & prisoners. The contrast of the warm community of Indians of All Nations and the harsh prison was hard to wrap my head around, but in either case, the grounds themselves were absolutely beautiful, filled with greenery and flowers of all kinds, and the views of the city skyline, the Bay Bridge, and the Golden Gate Bridge were amazing.
I highly recommend visiting Alcatraz. They say the average visit is around two and a half hours, but if you don't have kids rushing you along, I'd plan to stay longer - there is just so much to absorb!
The Indians of All Tribes occupied the abandoned island and began the Red Power movement that has continued through Standing Rock and more. The art, photos, & personal stories were powerful.
Next was the traditional Alcatraz exhibits and audio tour. It's all self-paced after the tour guide's beginning tour, so I wandered around for about four hours to see everything. There were two small booklets available for $1 each about the island and escape attempts that I was happy to buy. It's easy to imagine it as an active prison, especially with the audio tour that included the voices of actual former Alcatraz guards & prisoners. The contrast of the warm community of Indians of All Nations and the harsh prison was hard to wrap my head around, but in either case, the grounds themselves were absolutely beautiful, filled with greenery and flowers of all kinds, and the views of the city skyline, the Bay Bridge, and the Golden Gate Bridge were amazing.
I highly recommend visiting Alcatraz. They say the average visit is around two and a half hours, but if you don't have kids rushing you along, I'd plan to stay longer - there is just so much to absorb!
Written February 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dobsandlu
4 contributions
Jan 2020
My daughter and I visited Aalcatraz in January this year. Such a beautiful spot with stunning views of San Francisco. We had thought we might be a bit underwhelmed by the tour of the actual prison but the Audio Tour was superb. Being narrated by former inmates and prison guards the Alcatraz experience was really brought to life for us. We would recommend catching the ferry in the morning so you have plenty of time to explore the island before the final ferry leaves in the afternoon.
Written February 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hannah H
Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, England246 contributions
Sep 2019 • Couples
Alcatraz was the first thing I booked (after flights) for our whole USA trip, you def have to book months in advance otherwise you will really miss out!
It was one of the highlights of my whole trip, we absolutely loved it. We went on the first trip across, i would 100% recommend doing this as you are then the first on the island and don’t have to queue to start the tour! When we came out the queue to get in and get your headphones and pack for the tour was super long!
The tour itself is fab, I love that it was self guided and told by former inmates, I learnt a lot and felt that nothing was missed.
I would a million percent recommend visiting, but remember to bring a jumper and don’t wear shorts (even in summer as it’s chilly!!)
It was one of the highlights of my whole trip, we absolutely loved it. We went on the first trip across, i would 100% recommend doing this as you are then the first on the island and don’t have to queue to start the tour! When we came out the queue to get in and get your headphones and pack for the tour was super long!
The tour itself is fab, I love that it was self guided and told by former inmates, I learnt a lot and felt that nothing was missed.
I would a million percent recommend visiting, but remember to bring a jumper and don’t wear shorts (even in summer as it’s chilly!!)
Written February 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
307leven
Stroudsburg, PA307 contributions
Sep 2020
Not being able to visit inside the cell block, or any building on the island except the restroom was disappointing - thanks to the virus. Passengers on the ferry were limited to 150, which takes about 15-20 minutes each way. But all you can do is walk outside the buildings which kept my visit to just over an hour, including a 5 minute stop at the gift shop. They could have discounted the tickets or allowed smaller groups to enter the buildings for a limited time, but that was not an option. Although it was nice to see the island, if you want to fully enjoy your tour experience and get your money's worth, consider waiting until after this virus mess is over.
Written September 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alex Sico
Calgary, Canada338 contributions
Jan 2020
Incredible experience, from beginning to end. The ferry ride was very enjoyable and scenic, about 5-10 in duration. They had a departure every 20 minutes I believe. The line was not long at all, and the wait was not tremendous as they allow lots of people on the ferry at once. Once you arrive on the island, it is a self guided tour, they provide you with a audio recording to listen to. It is very very well made and full of interesting facts and details. You are allowed to see pretty much everything and you are free to wonder around the entire island, in and out of the building for as long as you like. I strongly recommend that you do not only limit yourself to the inside of the building. The basketball court and the outdoor facilities were very interesting to see as well. I was lucky enough to visit on a very beautiful afternoon, therefore the views of the city and the golden gate from certain parts of the island are truly jaw dropping. Worth every penny!
Written November 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
One person in our group has mobility issues. How much walking is needed for the tour? Are there hills to walk up or stairs? Also, is getting on and off the boat difficult?
Written September 24, 2024
There is a ramp to get on and off the ferry. There is a tram that you can get on at the dock that will transport you up to the cell house and back down again. The ferry boards those with mobility needs.
Written September 26, 2024
Hi there, I have a son who’s 12 and we will be purchasing the behind the scenes passes, I read that you have to be 12 or older to be able to go which is perfect for us but my son looks much younger then he actually is, do they as for some sort of ID to prove a child’s age? I just want to make sure I come prepared, it would suck to buy tickets and then get turned away
Written May 14, 2024
Hi, we want to do the Alcatraz tour. Is it best to do the day tour, the night tour or is what you see - make it worth doing both?
Written January 2, 2024
We only did the day tour which was great, basically stay as long as you want and get the boat back when your ready as you are free to roam the jail and the island.👍
Written January 4, 2024
If I go at 3:50 is there enough time to visit before the last ferry at 6:30?
Written July 16, 2023
You can do the virtual head-phone tour in less than an hour, so 2 hours would be plenty of time to exit ferry, visit prison, and catch ferry.
Written September 25, 2024
My husband and grown kids did the Behind the Scenes when we were there in May. It was about $100-ish each, but they said it was well worth it. My daughter and I did the regular Cellhouse Tour and that was great, but the others saw so much more cool stuff and had their own NPS tour guide.
Written July 17, 2023
Where is the best place to get tickets?
Written March 17, 2023
There are a lot of places that sell tickets, but unless you go through City Experiences, you are paying extra for unnecessary fluff. They are the official NPS-designated ferry and you will ride their ferries no matter who you go through. You'll just pay more if you don't book through them.
Written July 17, 2023
Last time I visited you could do a garden tour. Is that still available?
Written October 9, 2022
I didn't see any garden tour at Alcatraz. There were some pretty garden areas but not enough to support any kind of a tour. There were combination tours of Alcatraz and Golden Gate Park though offered by outside tour groups
Written October 10, 2022
Night or day tour which is the best for someone very unlikely to visit again?
Written June 14, 2022
I only did the day trip. One of the best parts was the view of both San Francisco and Alcatraz on the approach. You would miss that on a night tour.
Written June 16, 2022
Please be aware that there is no parking on Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing.
Visitors should be aware that most meters in San Francisco have a two-hour time limit. (A visit to Alcatraz and back takes a minimum of 3 hours.) Hours and rates vary so check the meter for hours of operation and rate.
There's Pier 27 and 29.5 lot too.
Written April 1, 2022
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
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